The holiday season can be challenging when it comes to staying on track with health and fitness goals, but with a mindful approach, you can maintain balance. Here are some tips:
Healthy Holiday Eating
1. Plan Ahead:
• Eat a healthy snack or small meal before parties to avoid overeating.
• Review the menu (if possible) and decide in advance what you’ll indulge in.
2. Balance Your Plate:
• Fill half your plate with vegetables, a quarter with lean protein, and a quarter with starches or holiday treats.
• Limit high-calorie sauces, gravies, and dressings, or use them sparingly.
3. Practice Portion Control:
• Enjoy indulgent foods in smaller portions to satisfy cravings without overdoing it.
• Use smaller plates to help manage portion sizes.
4. Savor, Don’t Rush:
• Eat slowly and mindfully, focusing on the flavors and textures of your food.
• Pause between bites to give your body time to register fullness.
5. Limit Liquid Calories:
• Watch your intake of sugary cocktails, eggnog, and other calorie-dense beverages.
• Opt for water, sparkling water, or lighter drink options like a wine spritzer.
6. Choose Your Splurges Wisely:
• Decide which treats or holiday foods are most meaningful to you, and skip the rest.
• Balance indulgences with healthier meals earlier or later in the day.
7. Stay Hydrated:
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day, as dehydration can sometimes be mistaken for hunger.
Staying on Track with Fitness Goals
1. Keep Moving:
• Aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days, even if it’s a walk or a quick home workout.
• Include family and friends in physical activities like a holiday hike or ice skating.
2. Stick to a Schedule:
• Plan workouts as appointments and prioritize them.
• Even a short, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) session can keep you on track.
3. Set Realistic Goals:
• Focus on maintaining your fitness level rather than making big gains during the busy holiday season.
• Be kind to yourself if you miss a workout but commit to getting back on track.
4. Use Holiday Activities as Exercise:
• Shoveling snow, decorating, or shopping can count as physical activity.
• Make these moments active opportunities rather than sedentary ones.
5. Practice Stress Management:
• Holidays can be stressful, which can lead to overeating or skipping workouts. Incorporate relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing.
• Prioritize quality sleep to keep your energy levels and motivation up.
6. Accountability Helps:
• Partner with a workout buddy or share your fitness goals with a friend or family member.
• Use fitness apps or trackers to stay consistent and celebrate small victories.
7. Don’t Wait Until New Year’s:
• Don’t fall into the “I’ll start in January” trap. Every healthy choice you make now adds up and reduces the work later.
KW CrossFit 
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